Book cheap flights to Nosy Be

The ideal time to visit this island retreat is between May and October when temperatures are warm and the rainy season is over. You can spot whales and baby lemurs during June and July, while bird lovers should visit in August and September to see plenty of endemic species. If you’re a keen surfer, you may want to go a little earlier in April to catch some good waves.

South Africans travelling to Nosy Be require a visa to enter Madagascar. Make sure that your SA passport is valid for 6 months from your date of return. You’ll also need a few pages free for stamps.

The South African Embassy in Madagascar is located in the capital, Antananarivo at Lot IVO 68 Bis, Rue Ravoninahitriniarivo, Ankorondran, 101, Antananarivo. Phone: 261 20 224 3350.

Nosy Be has become a popular tourist destination and is no different from other touristic cities. Although it is considered to be a safe city, be vigilant with personal belongings and remain aware of your surroundings.

Healthcare is decent and pharmacies are well-stocked with general medication. If you require specific medication, it’s best to bring it along with you. Note that most doctors and medical facilities in Madagascar insist on payment up front. The tap water is not safe to drink and bottled water is readily available. Always check if ice has been made using filtered water.

Remember to pack in plenty of sunblock and insect repellent!

Once a rustic fishing village, Ambatoloaka is the tourist epicentre of Nosy Be. Fairly quiet and relaxing by day, as night falls you can find many visitors sipping the local rum at lively bars scattered along Madirokely beach. Accommodation ranges from rustic beach bungalows to exotic villas. Most rooms have ceiling fans; those with air conditioning are more expensive.

To escape the crowds, drive a little further north to Andilana. This beach town is the perfect spot for some peace and quiet where the turquoise water in the protected bay makes it ideal for snorkelling. The sandy beaches are slowly being transformed into resorts, so make your way there before it becomes too commercial.

Many small islands surround Nosy Be, including Tsarabanjina Island, known as the perfect honeymoon destination.

Taxis are the popular option for getting around the island. A trip around the city will cost around 1000 MGA (R 6). Of course, island hopping is a great way to see the surrounding beaches and cliffs and can easily be organised through your hotel or a tour operator. Small speedboats shuttle between the main ports of Ankify and Andoany (Helle-Ville) and operate from early morning to late afternoon. The 40-minute trip will cost you about R 50.

For the more adventurous traveller, a great way to see the island is by scooter. Scooters can be rented for around R 90 for the day.